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How to Survive Summer Golf

Summer hit the Gorge fast and hard this year with temperatures rising 30+ degress in one week! Our bodies may still be adjusting to the hot temperatures, but this doesn't mean our golf game needs to suffer. Here are a few words of wisdom from our golf director to help keep you playing like a pro!

"With the arrival of summer (finally!) and hot sunny weather, it's good sometimes to review strategies for dealing with these conditions. As with cold wet weather, preparation is the key. Following is a brief checklist that I follow that may help you next time you venture out on a hot day:

Sunscreen. Especially the ears and nose if you don't wear a hat like me. I use a SPF 45 dry gel that doesn't get your hands greasy.

Sunglasses. Your eyes can get sunburned just like the rest of you! Several manufacturers make golf-specific lenses that enhance contours and work well in the shade as well as sun, so shop around.

Clothing. One of the best advances are the modern fabrics that help control body heat and wick moisture away from your skin. If you're a hold out and still wearing cotton, you'll be amazed at how dry you'll stay with these new fabrics. No sweaty pits!

Hydrate. Yes, you want to drink plenty while you play on a hot day, but hydration should actually begin well before you venture out to be most effective. And, although energy drinks and such are better than nothing, you can't beat just plain old water.

Wet towel. If it's really hot, wet a towel with cold water and drape it around your neck. Some of the major arteries run close to the skin in your neck, and a wet towel will really help cool your body temperature.

Attitude. When it's really hot, it becomes hard to concentrate and play your best. Be patient, and just like cold wet weather, be prepared to hit some funky shots! Pace yourself and remember golf is a marathon, not a sprint.

One of the best benefits to playing on a hot day (besides the suntan!) is just like playing on a cold, wet day, the crowds become minimal. The hotter the day, the more you will tend to have the course to yourself. Finally, if you just can't take the heat, ask about early bird and twilight rates, as they are usually cheaper and you can avoid the sun!"

Virginia

Washington

Washington, D.C.

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